Summer Research: Benefits of Summer Programs vs Visiting Scholar

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the benefits and eligibility of summer research programs, specifically comparing structured programs like SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship) with informal visiting scholar opportunities. The scope includes considerations for international students seeking research experiences in the U.S.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the benefits of summer programs like SURF compared to self-directed visiting scholar programs.
  • Another participant notes that many U.S. summer research programs, such as NIST SURF and NSF REU, are restricted to U.S. citizens.
  • Some participants suggest that certain SURF programs may be available to international students, although eligibility appears limited.
  • A participant argues that structured programs like SURF are generally more beneficial due to their organization and defined research topics.
  • Another participant challenges the availability of SURF for international students, citing specific eligibility requirements from official documents.
  • A participant shares personal experience applying to a SURF program and mentions a specific program for students from the former Soviet Union at Fermilab.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the eligibility of international students for summer research programs, with some asserting that opportunities exist while others contend that options are very limited. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific benefits of structured programs versus informal arrangements.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the clarity of eligibility requirements for various programs, and the discussion reflects uncertainty about the availability of summer research opportunities for international students outside of U.S. institutions.

nanoapple
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Hello everyone,

I'm a 3rd year student at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.
What's the benefits of summer programs like SURF in comparison with "visiting scholar" program, when I'll looking for research and contacting professors by myself?

Thanks
 
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To take part in an NIST SURF or NSF REU program, you must be a United States citizen. I'm not really familiar with any programs in the U.S. that are specific to foreign students besides study abroad programs.
 
As for SURF, some of research are available for international students.
 
nanoapple said:
As for SURF, some of research are available for international students.

My mistake. Then I would try to get into a SURF program. These programs are well structured and well thought out, so they will be more beneficial than an informal type of visiting scholar program. They usually have a set of topics or a specific topic that you will pursue throughout the summer. These programs have to reapply for funding each year, so they are usually high quality.
 
nanoapple said:
As for SURF, some of research are available for international students.

Are you sure? Read part of the requirement:

http://www.surf.nist.gov/pdf/fedreg2010.pdf

1. Eligible Applicants
NIST’s SURF Gaithersburg Programs are open to colleges and universities in the United States and its territories with degree granting programs in materials science, chemistry, nanoscale science, neutron research, engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physics. Participating students must be U.S. citizens or permanent U.S. residents.

There are other summer research programs where international students might qualify, but even then, these are open to international students who are already matriculating at US educational institutions. There are very few (if any, and I haven't see one) programs initiated by US agencies and govt. institutions that are open to international students from outside the US.

Zz.
 
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I'm sure :) coz I had an opportunity to apply. But I've failed =(

I mean this program http://surf.caltech.edu/applicants/application/international.html

Moreover, I know program for only students from the former Soviet Union at Fermilab http://apc.fnal.gov/parti/howtoapply.html
 
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